Ligament
Gastrosplenic ligament
A vascular fold between the fundus and splenic hilum
High-yield
Short gastric and left gastro-omental vessels belong to the gastrosplenic fold; the main splenic vessels and pancreatic tail are associated with the splenorenal fold.
Overview
The gastrosplenic ligament connects the upper greater curvature of the stomach with the splenic hilum. It develops from dorsal mesogastrium and contributes to the lateral enclosure of the lesser sac. Gastric vessels run between its peritoneal layers.
Reference facts
- Attachments
- Extends from the fundal/upper greater-curvature region to the hilum of the spleen.
- Function
- Links the stomach and spleen while carrying short gastric and left gastro-omental vessels with accompanying lymphatics.
- Clinical point
- These vessels matter during mobilization of the stomach or spleen. The short gastric venous route can become a collateral pathway when splenic venous outflow is obstructed, producing gastric varices.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the gastrosplenic ligament attach?
The gastrosplenic ligament attaches extends from the fundal/upper greater-curvature region to the hilum of the spleen.
What does the gastrosplenic ligament do?
Links the stomach and spleen while carrying short gastric and left gastro-omental vessels with accompanying lymphatics.
Why does the gastrosplenic ligament matter clinically?
These vessels matter during mobilization of the stomach or spleen. The short gastric venous route can become a collateral pathway when splenic venous outflow is obstructed, producing gastric varices.